The advent of digital television technology has given broadcast television stations the ability to compress their signal so they can use the same space to air six channels of programming. This process is called “multicasting” and it is critical to the survival of free over-the-air television stations following the transition to digital.

TBN is already using multicast technology to broadcast four networks at once over one channel. Currently there are 11 cities that are multicasting TBN, The Church Channel, JCTV and TBN Enlace. During the next two years TBN will offer multicast to 20 more stations.

Congress is currently working on a new bill for digital television. TBN and other Broadcasters have asked congress to add language that would require cable companies to carry all of a station’s multicast signals. The cable companies oppose multicast must carry even though it will not take any more space than the old analog channel.

It is critical to the growth of Christian broadcasting that the new Digital TV bill add a multicast must carry requirement to level the playing field so that independent and religious stations can survive. This is why legislators need to be contacted to ensure that local stations get this must carry protection. TBN is encouraging all viewers to call your senator and congressmen today and ask them to include multicast must carry in the new Digital TV bill.

You can do this by calling the capital switchboard at 202-224-3121 and asking for your senator or congressman by name (if you are not sure of his or her name just mention your state) or by contacting the key legislators below.